The River Tywi, once a vibrant waterway teeming with fish and a cherished site for coracle fishing, is facing a severe environmental crisis as pollution levels escalate. Centuries of fishing heritage are at risk, with local fishermen reporting alarmingly low catches amidst growing concerns about water quality. A recent investigation by the campaign group Save the River Tywi has highlighted the presence of industrial, agricultural, and domestic waste contaminating this historic river.
Pollution Crisis Unveiled
Test results from Save the River Tywi have revealed troubling signs of pollution in the Tywi, prompting local fishers to voice their frustrations. Keith Elias, a fifth-generation coracle fisherman, lamented the dire state of the river, noting he managed to catch only a single fish throughout the three-month fishing season from May to July. This stark contrast to previous years, where the waters were abundant with salmon and sea trout, underscores a troubling trend. Andrew Davies, Chairman of the Carmarthen Coracle and Netsman Association, echoed this sentiment, stating that the four coracle fishermen currently active on the Tywi collectively caught a mere 12 fish during the 2026 season—an astonishing decline from the numerous fish caught in a single night just a few years ago.
The Decline of a Tradition
Coracle fishing, a practice that dates back centuries in Wales, involves using small, rounded boats to catch fish at night. Historically, this activity provided a vital source of income for many in the region, but it has now transformed into more of a heritage pastime. The situation has become increasingly bleak, with Davies expressing concern that the enthusiasm for fishing is waning, as evidenced by the sharp decline in fishing licences issued. Just four licences were obtained this year, compared to twelve when he first started fishing nearly four decades ago.
Reports indicate an alarming rise in the number of dead fish seen floating in the river, a visual testament to the deteriorating ecosystem. Local residents have also documented instances of discolouration and noxious odours emanating from the water, which they attribute to pollution from both industrial sources and agricultural runoff.
Regulatory Response and Community Action
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) has stated that it takes all reports of pollution seriously and is currently engaged in multiple investigations within the Tywi catchment area, including some that are progressing towards legal action. The agency acknowledged the impact of pollution on local ecosystems and the urgent need for intervention.
Welsh Water, the company responsible for managing water quality, has announced a significant investment of £889 million aimed at upgrading storm overflow systems between 2025 and 2030. This includes six projects specifically targeting pollution reduction in the Tywi region. However, local fishermen and community leaders stress that this is not solely a water company issue; broader collaboration across various sectors, including agriculture and industry, is essential for meaningful change.
Citizens have taken matters into their own hands, conducting tests and sharing evidence of pollution online. Mayor of Carmarthen, Russell Sparks, expressed his deep concern about the current state of the river, describing it as being in a “really tough situation.” He highlighted the unfortunate cancellation of the annual Tywi River Festival due to pollution, an event that left the community devastated.
The Broader Context
As environmental pressures mount, the plight of the River Tywi serves as a microcosm of wider ecological challenges faced by rivers across the UK. Huwel Manley, head of south-west operations for NRW, pointed out that factors such as pollution and rising water temperatures due to dry weather contribute to the ongoing degradation of aquatic ecosystems. Meanwhile, local MP Ann Davies has called for firmer action against repeat offenders of pollution, stressing the collective responsibility of individuals, farmers, and businesses in safeguarding the river’s health.
The Welsh government has acknowledged the significance of the Tywi as one of Wales’ most vital rivers, supporting important habitats and cultural traditions like coracle fishing. However, it also indicated that ongoing investigations into potential pollution sources would need to be completed before further comments could be made.
Why it Matters
The decline of fish populations in the River Tywi not only threatens a cherished local tradition but also signals a broader environmental crisis that could have lasting repercussions for the ecosystem and community livelihoods. As pollution continues to compromise water quality, the fate of coracle fishing hangs in the balance, raising urgent questions about environmental stewardship and collective responsibility in preserving natural resources for future generations.